If there’s something strange, in your neighbourhood …
An American hearse transformed into a replica of the Ecto-1 from the latest Ghostbusters movie is up for sale this Halloween.
Mike Barr, from Belfast, Northern Ireland, spent thousands refurbishing the vehicle so it was similar to the one used in the most recent 2016 film. It is on sale for just under £25,000 ono.
He initially spotted the 1991 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham Hearse on Ebay and arranged for it to be shipped over from the USA and refurbished ahead of the movie’s cinema release.
Mike, who runs Star Car Hire, said: “The car was being used as a hearse in West Plains, Missouri when I first saw it. It had just 49 000 miles on the clock, had been extremely well cared for, and its condition was first class.
“It was a brilliant find. The engine purrs quietly, the automatic gears shift smoothly, and the suspension is a soft as Marshmallow man himself. Inside, the interior has the original blue brocade with electric windows and seats – it was a very high spec car for the 90s.
He added: “Despite looking dark and gloomy, it was in such great shape and had so much potential. So I quickly arranged for it to be shipped over so we could start work straight away.”
The 1991 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham Hearse before it was converted into the Ghostbuster Ecto-1.
According to the Vehicle Identification Number, the Cadillac was built at the Lansing Michigan plant in 1991 as a four-door sedan before it was converted into a hearse by the Superior Coach. Under the bonnet is a 305cu in V8 with about 172 bhp engine.
Work started as soon as it arrived in the UK. The vehicle was wrapped in white vinyl with full Ghostbusters decals; the wheels were changed with the centre caps modified; and a custom roof rack was built for the props made for the top of the car. It comes with white-wall tyres and the original red steel Cadillac wheels with modified chrome hubcaps to match the original movie car.
A siren, flashing lights and police-style light bar at the rear were wired into car as well as a PA speaker and a sound system. Mike’s contacts even helped source a silver Ghostbusters hood ornament to complete the replica Ecto-1.
The Ghostbusters badge at the front of the car. Picture Renis Babrovskis.
As soon as the refurbishment was complete, the car was then used to promote the movie, mostly across Ireland.
And even though it’s not the classic 1959 Cadillac model from the original 1980s Ghostbusters movies – everything about it does match the Ecto-1 used in the 2016 remake.
The movie is directed by Paul Feig and stars an all-female cast including Saturday Night Live’s Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones. Its makers wanted to feature a Ghostbusters car with a 1970s or 1980s look.
The Ghostbusters film released in 2016 is now available on DVD. Colombia Pictures.
Mike added: “We’ve been backwards and forwards like a yo-yo to mainland UK and further afield, so we’re selling for practicality more than anything.
“It has been a difficult decision, even my wife and kids don’t want me to sell this one.”
The vehicle’s interior. Picture Renis Babrovskis.
This Ecto-1 replica is currently insured with Adrian Flux Insurance.
Gerry Bucke, General Manager, from Adrian Flux said: “This is a fabulous replica of the Ecto-1 from the most recent Ghostbusters movie. As specialist insurers, we offer cover for a wide range of American vehicles, including classic and modified versions.”
For more information about the vehicle contact Star Car Hire direct.
As modified specialists, Adrian Flux, have been providing tailored insurance for over 50 years. If you’ve got a highly modified car, or are perhaps looking to modify your current motor, give us a call on 0800 369 8590 or use our callback service to get a detailed quote.